East German Voters Approve New Socialist Constitution in 1968

Name: East German Voters Approve New Socialist Constitution in 1968
Start: 1968-04-06
Location: Unspecified

A Historic Decision: The 1968 East German Constitutional Referendum

On April 8, 1968, a significant political event occurred in the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) as 94.5% of voters approved a new socialist constitution. This referendum was a defining moment in the establishment of socialist governance in East Germany and reflected the government's attempts to convey legitimacy and support among its citizens.

The Context of the 1968 Referendum

In the wake of the 1953 uprising and various social and political challenges during the post-war period, the East German government sought to solidify its power and align its policies more closely with Marxist-Leninist principles. The new constitution aimed to underscore the state's transformation into a socialist society and was presented as a means of fostering unity and progress.

Propaganda and Public Sentiment

The referendum was heavily influenced by government propaganda, which emphasized the importance of the socialist state. Through rallies and mass media, the government portrayed the constitution as a vehicle for social justice and collective success, leading to overwhelming approval at the polls.

Impacts of the 1968 Constitution

The approval of the new constitution had significant implications for East Germany’s political landscape. It not only solidified the ruling Socialist Unity Party's (SED) power but also set the framework for governance and civil rights under a socialist regime.

Establishment of Socialist Ideals

The 1968 constitution enshrined the principles of socialism in East German law. It stressed the social ownership of production and the role of the state in economic management and societal development, thus reaffirming the commitment to a socialist society.

Long-term Consequences for East Germany

While the government celebrated the high approval rate of the new constitution, many citizens remained skeptical of the political realities. In the long run, the economic struggles of the 1980s and the eventual reunification of Germany in 1990 posed challenges to the legitimacy of the socialist system that had been fortified by the constitutional approval.

Fun Fact

The Constitutional Process Behind the Curtain

Interestingly, the referendum was marked not only by overwhelming approval but also by extensive constraints on opposition. Many East Germans felt pressured to participate and vote in favor, indicative of the political climate in the country at that time.